I have decked my bed with coveringsThis phrase suggests an intentional preparation and allure, often associated with seduction. In biblical times, the bed was not just a place for rest but also a symbol of intimacy and covenant. The act of decking or adorning the bed indicates a deliberate attempt to create an enticing environment. This can be seen as a metaphor for temptation and the seductive nature of sin, which often presents itself as attractive and desirable. The imagery here warns against the deceptive nature of sin, which can appear beautiful and inviting but ultimately leads to destruction.
with colored linen from Egypt
Egypt was renowned in the ancient world for its high-quality linen, which was a luxury item. The mention of "colored linen from Egypt" highlights the opulence and extravagance involved in the seduction. This reference to Egypt can also carry a deeper symbolic meaning. Biblically, Egypt often represents a place of bondage and idolatry, as seen in the Israelites' enslavement and subsequent exodus. The use of Egyptian linen may symbolize the allure of returning to a life of sin and bondage, contrasting with the freedom found in following God's ways. Additionally, the use of imported goods underscores the lengths to which one might go to indulge in sinful desires, emphasizing the cost and effort associated with such pursuits.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
The SeductressThe speaker in this verse is a woman who is attempting to seduce a young man. She represents temptation and the allure of sin.
2.
The Young ManThe target of the seductress's advances, symbolizing those who are naive or lacking in wisdom and discernment.
3.
EgyptA place known for its luxury and wealth, often symbolizing worldly allure and temptation in the Bible.
Teaching Points
The Allure of SinSin often presents itself attractively, much like the "colored linens from Egypt." We must be vigilant and discerning to see beyond the surface allure.
The Danger of TemptationTemptation can be subtle and persuasive. Like the young man, we must be aware of our vulnerabilities and seek wisdom to avoid falling into sin.
The Importance of WisdomProverbs consistently emphasizes the need for wisdom and understanding. We should seek God's wisdom to navigate life's challenges and avoid the pitfalls of sin.
Guarding Our HeartsWe must be proactive in guarding our hearts against temptation, filling our minds with God's Word and surrounding ourselves with godly influences.
The Consequences of SinWhile sin may seem appealing, it ultimately leads to destruction. We must remember the long-term consequences of our actions and choose righteousness.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 7:16?
2.How does Proverbs 7:16 warn against the allure of temptation and sin?
3.What role does discernment play in avoiding the seduction described in Proverbs 7:16?
4.How can Proverbs 7:16 be connected to 1 Corinthians 10:13 on temptation?
5.How can you guard your heart against enticements similar to Proverbs 7:16?
6.What practical steps can you take to resist temptations like in Proverbs 7:16?
7.What is the significance of "colored linens from Egypt" in Proverbs 7:16?
8.How does Proverbs 7:16 reflect the cultural context of ancient Israel?
9.Why does Proverbs 7:16 mention "Egypt" specifically?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 7?
11.Is there any historical or archaeological evidence supporting the cultural practices implied in Proverbs 7, or is it purely a moral allegory?
12.What prompted God's judgment on Edom?
13.What does 'ruach' mean?
14.Proverbs 15:11: How do ancient concepts of Sheol and Abaddon align with modern historical or archaeological findings on the afterlife?What Does Proverbs 7:16 Mean
I have decked my bed• The adulterous woman speaks, painting a picture of deliberate preparation. She has taken time to arrange the place of sin, underscoring intentionality rather than impulse (cf.Proverbs 7:18, “Come, let us drink our fill of love till morning”).
• Scripture often connects prepared beds with moral choices—either righteous rest (Psalm 132:3–5) or sinful indulgence (Ezekiel 23:17). Here, the “decked” bed signals a trap.
• The verse reminds the listener that temptation rarely arrives unadorned; it is carefully staged to appear harmless or even beautiful (2 Samuel 11:2–4, David and Bathsheba).
with coverings• Multiple layers of coverings imply comfort, concealment, and expense. These layers hide danger beneath softness (cf.Psalm 55:21, “his words are smoother than oil, yet they are drawn swords”).
• The notion of “coverings” echoesIsaiah 28:20, where a short bed and narrow blanket symbolize false security. The seductress offers what looks secure but ultimately exposes the soul.
• Layers also suggest secrecy. Sin loves darkness and drapery (Job 24:15)—anything that muffles conscience and shields consequences.
with colored linen from Egypt• “Colored linen” indicates luxury, rarity, and worldly prestige. Egypt, famed for fine textiles (Ezekiel 27:7), stands in Scripture as a symbol of earthly allure and past bondage (Exodus 14:12).
• Lavish visuals aim to overwhelm discernment. InAmos 6:4, those at ease in Zion “lie on beds inlaid with ivory… stretched out on their couches” while ignoring looming judgment.
• The imported fabric also signals compromise with foreign values. Solomon warns elsewhere that foreign influences can draw the heart away (1 Kings 11:1–4).
• The description exposes how sin markets itself: elite, sophisticated, respectable—yet still rebellion against God (James 4:4).
summaryProverbs 7:16 reveals temptation’s strategy: stage the setting, layer it in comfort, brand it with status. The seductive invitation is calculated to lower defenses and glamorize disobedience. Believers who honor the literal truth of Scripture can see through the coverings, recalling that real security and beauty are found only in obedience to the Lord (Psalm 119:11).
(16)
Carved works.--Rather,
with coloured or striped coverlets.For another notice of the extravagance of the women of Jerusalem, see Isaiah 3, and for a description of the trade of Tyre, the great supplier of foreign luxuries, see Ezek. xxvii Myrrh is said to be a natural product of Arabia, aloes and cinnamon of the east coast of Africa and Ceylon.
Verse 16. - She describes the preparation she has made for his entertainment.
Coverings of tapestry;marbaddim, "cushions," "pillows." The expression occurs again in
Proverbs 31:22. It is derived from
דָבַד "to spread," and means cushions spread out ready for use. The Septuagint has
κειρίαις; Vulgate,
funibus, "cords." These versions seem to regard the word as denoting a kind of delicate sacking on which the coverlets were laid.
Carved works, with fine linen of Egypt; literally,
striped, or variegated, coverings, Egyptian linen. The words are in apposition, but the latter point to the material used, which is
אֵטוּן,
etun (
ἅπαξλεγόμενον), "linen yarn or thread," hence equivalent to "coverlets of Egyptian thread." This was of extreme fineness, costly, and much prized. By "carved works" (Hebrew,
חֲטֻבותchatuboth) the Authorized Version must refer to bed poles or bed boards elaborately carved and polished; but the word is better taken of coverlets striped in different colours, which give the idea of richness and luxury. Vulgate,
trapetibus pictis ex Aegypto, "embroidered rugs of Egyptian work;" Septuagint,
ἀμφιτάποις τοῖς ἀπ Αἰγύπτου, "shaggy cloth of Egypt." The mention of these articles denotes the foreign commerce of the Hebrews, and their appreciation of artistic work (comp.
Isaiah 19:9;
Ezekiel 27:7). The Prophet Amos (
Amos 6:4) denounces those that "lie upon beds of ivory, and stretch themselves upon their couches."
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
I have deckedרָבַ֣דְתִּי(rā·ḇaḏ·tî)Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular
Strong's 7234:To spread over, deckmy bedעַרְשִׂ֑י(‘ar·śî)Noun - feminine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 6210:A couch, divanwith coverings,מַ֭רְבַדִּים(mar·ḇad·dîm)Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 4765:A spread, coverletwith coloredחֲ֝טֻב֗וֹת(ḥă·ṭu·ḇō·wṯ)Noun - feminine plural
Strong's 2405:A carving, a tapestrylinenאֵט֥וּן(’ê·ṭūn)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 330:Twisted, tapestryfrom Egypt.מִצְרָֽיִם׃(miṣ·rā·yim)Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 4714:Egypt -- a son of Ham, also his descendants and their country in Northwest Africa
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 7:16 I have spread my couch with carpets (Prov. Pro Pr) 
